Society

Imperial Household Aide Fired for Theft

TOKYO, May 02 (News On Japan) - A chamberlain assigned to the Emperor's household has been dismissed by the Imperial Household Agency after it was discovered the aide had embezzled 3.6 million yen, or roughly 25,000 dollars, from an account used to cover the Imperial Family’s living expenses.

The individual, who is in their 20s, was fired on May 2nd, and the agency has filed a criminal complaint with the Imperial Guard Headquarters on suspicion of theft.

The case came to light in January when a manager responsible for overseeing the household’s private expenses noticed a discrepancy between the cash on hand and the amounts recorded in the official ledger. An internal investigation launched soon after revealed in March that 30,000 yen was unaccounted for. The chamberlain, who had just completed a night shift, admitted to taking the money.

Subsequent investigation revealed that the theft had occurred over a five-month period, beginning in November 2023 and continuing through March 2024. During that time, the chamberlain stole a total of 3.6 million yen. The aide reportedly said the funds were used to cover daily living expenses due to personal financial difficulties. The agency stated that the full amount has since been returned.

As part of the response, the Imperial Household Agency also took disciplinary action against the manager in charge of the account, imposing a one-month salary reduction for failing to catch the discrepancies sooner.

In a public statement, Grand Steward Nishimura Yasuhiko described the chamberlain’s actions as "completely unacceptable and deeply regrettable," especially considering the individual’s role as a public servant entrusted with supporting the Imperial Family. Nishimura apologized to the Emperor, Empress, and the rest of the Imperial Household, expressing deep remorse over the incident.

Source: FNN

Japan to Release Oil Reserves as Early as March 16

Japan plans to release petroleum reserves as early as March 16 in response to surging crude oil prices driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East, with the government also aiming to keep the nationwide average gasoline price at around 170 yen per liter.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Vessel Damaged in Persian Gulf, No Injuries Reported

A container ship owned by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines that had remained in the Persian Gulf following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz was found to have sustained damage, although no injuries were reported among the crew.

Japan Approves Travel Authorization System

The Japanese government approved a bill on March 10th to revise the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act to establish an electronic travel authorization system called JESTA that would screen foreign visitors before they arrive in Japan.

Mid-Winter Temperatures Return, Snow Falls in Central Tokyo

A blast of midwinter-like cold returned to the Kanto region, bringing rare March snowfall as Utsunomiya recorded its heaviest snow in 21 years for the month, while snow also fell in central Tokyo.

Two Men Fall While Climbing Mount Fuji

Two men fell while climbing Mount Fuji shortly before 3 p.m. on March 9th near the New Seventh Station, as authorities launched a rescue operation on the mountain where summit routes remain closed for the winter season.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Society NEWS

Fukushima Residents Face Uncertain Future

Fifteen years after the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, daily life has gradually returned to areas where evacuation orders have been lifted, but in zones still aiming for their removal and in designated difficult-to-return areas, human activity has yet to resume.

Foreign Workers Feel Uneasy About Japan's Proposed Reward for Info

Concerns are growing over a new system being considered by Ibaraki Prefecture that would offer rewards to people who report information leading to the arrest of foreign nationals working illegally, with critics warning the measure could deepen social divisions and encourage discrimination.

Documentary : Irish in Japan | 80s

This late 80s documentary explores the experiences of Irish people living in Japan. It delves into cultural differences, from language barriers and social customs to the education system and daily life. Expect insightful commentary on work, leisure, and navigating a distinctly different society. (TRNGL)

Why Japanese Women Don’t Want to Marry Anymore

Right now in Japan, more women say they do not want to get married. In 1980, the unmarried rate for women was about 4%, meaning most women eventually married. Today it is about 23%, or roughly one in four women. (Japanese Comedian Meshida)

Prince Hisahito Skis With Children in Hokkaido

Prince Hisahito, the eldest son of Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko and second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne, joined children on the ski slopes during a visit to Hokkaido, where he was seen offering assistance to a child who had fallen.

Yakuza Boss Arrested for Forcing Restaurant to Buy Lucky Charm

An 83-year-old yakuza boss has been arrested on suspicion of collecting protection money by forcing a restaurant owner to purchase a decorative rake known as a kumade.

Fake Accounts Exploit Popularity of Punch the Baby Monkey

The sight of Punch, a baby monkey often seen clutching an orangutan plush toy as a substitute mother, has captured widespread attention, but the animal’s growing popularity has also led to the emergence of fraudulent social media accounts soliciting donations in his name.

Man Rearrested Over Stabbings in Dotonbori

A 21-year-old man has been rearrested in connection with a stabbing incident in Osaka’s Minami district that left three 17-year-old boys dead or injured, as police also launched outreach efforts for troubled youths in the area.

< 2 3 4 5 >